Signs a Tree May Be Hazardous and Need to Come Down

Common warning signs

• Large dead or bare branches high in the canopy, sometimes called "widowmakers." They can fall without warning, even on a calm day.
• A new or worsening lean, especially with soil heaving or root lifting visible on the opposite side of the tree.
• Deep cracks or splits in the trunk, or where a major limb meets the trunk.
• Mushrooms or fungal growth (conks) at the base or on the trunk — often a sign of internal or root decay.
• Hollow sections or visible cavities in the trunk.
• Peeling bark, missing bark, or vertical cracks that can indicate canker disease or old injury.
• Included bark or co-dominant trunks — two trunks growing tightly together with a weak, V-shaped attachment point.
• Root damage from recent construction, trenching, grade changes, or storm-loosened soil.
• Dieback concentrated in the upper canopy while lower growth still looks healthy.
• A history of "topping" — aggressive, indiscriminate cutting back of the crown, which often causes weak regrowth and long-term structural problems.

When it's worth getting an assessment

Any of the signs above near a home, driveway, fence line, or power line is worth a professional look, especially in North Fulton's older neighborhoods with mature hardwood canopy — see our Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, and Johns Creek service area pages for what's typical in each. A tree with one or two minor issues might just need pruning; a combination of several signs, or any sign on a large tree close to a structure, is a stronger case for a full assessment sooner rather than later.

If a tree has already come down or is actively failing, see our storm damage tree safety checklist instead.